Professor Jonathan Van Tam speaking at Downing Street press conference

The transcript discusses the adaptability of new vaccine technologies, such as mRNA and adenovirus vector vaccines, in response to virus mutations. It reassures that current vaccines are effective against the B.1.1.7 variant. Concerns about the South African variant are addressed, noting that it is not expected to overtake the current dominant strain in the UK. The discussion emphasizes that while headlines about variants can be alarming, the situation is under control.

How does the speaker describe the timeline for adjusting vaccines in response to new variants?

What is the speaker's overall message regarding the headlines about vaccine variants?